
Hello Doctor, I Seek An Opinion For An Expected Mother

I seek an opinion for an expected mother who's running into fourth month of pregnancy. Upon regular check up and scan she was diagnosed with Nuchal Translucency (NT) where the report indicates increased NT in normal fetus or can be associated with fetal chromosomal or genetic abnormalities or can be seen in fetuses with cardiac abnormality.
Upon counselling she was advised by the gynec that the new born could be gentically abnormal or can have cardiac abnormality. Is this something concerning or else can be treated during the course of pregenancy to ensure healthy new born is delivered?
I am attaching the medical reports for reference. Please advise at the earliest.
Doctor - Thanks for quick revert. i had follow up questions as below and appreciate your response.
1. What is the root cause and why does this complication arise?
2. Is there a chance that this issue may recur in furture if she gets pregnant again?
3. Any precautions that you may suggest to take ao this does not repeat.
Thank You.
Details below.
Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am Dr Ramadevi Wani. I will be answering your concerns today. I have read the attached reports thoroughly.
The genetic councillor has said it right.
The only way now to confirm whether baby is normal or not is by doing amniocentesis to study the baby’s chromosomes.
Most often there is no clear reason why the baby presents with abnormal chromosomes and this does not recur in future pregnancies. It is because of faulty cell division at the embryo level which may be related to increased mother’s age.
Very rarely it is inherited.
There are no specific precautions to be taken. Eat healthy food. If at all you smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol, you need to stop it.
Start taking folic acid 5 mg daily when you plan your next pregnancy, as this is proven to prevent the occurrence of abnormalities in the spine and brain of the foetus.
If you have further concerns, I will be happy to answer.

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